Ancient yogis used to practice in caves, beneath trees, and even on the foothills of mountains thousands of years ago. The ancient yogis did not have access to yoga studios that were well ventilated (and sometimes heated for Hot Yoga), with hot and cool showers, and a lounge. They used what they had.
We are fortunate to have yoga studios available to us today. If you would like to take advantage of the nature that has been so generously given to us, then you might consider teaching yoga at a park.
The perfect place to practice yoga is in a park. There’s plenty of light and fresh air and you can hear the natural sounds made by birds, bees and breezes. But there are also pros and cons of teaching yoga in the park. This article will discuss these pros and con and give tips on how you can teach yoga in a park.
The Benefits of Teaching Yoga at the Park
You can enjoy a natural source of vitamin D
You don’t need to take a pill to get the micronutrient you and your students require if you are teaching yoga in a park. The sun is the best source of Vitamin D for you and your students.
Your Muscles and Bones Will Be Stronger
Yoga can help strengthen your muscles and joints by putting them under stress. Did you know that if you practice outdoor yoga and consume enough Vitamin D you can also strengthen your muscles and bones?
Vitamin D controls the levels of calcium and phosphate in the body. These nutrients keep our muscles and bones in good condition. We experience fatigue, weakness of the muscles, and pains when we are deficient in Vitamin D.
You will feel better.
Numerous studies have shown that yoga can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can give us new perspectives and boost our mood. Nature has a strong effect on mental health, according to research.
In nature, we experience less stress, anxiety, and depression. All these benefits can be obtained by spending 20-30 minutes in nature three times per week.
The benefits of earthing are not limited to the environment
We usually begin yoga classes with grounding and centering. This helps us to be more present. You can also benefit from grounding when you practice yoga outdoors.
Earthing is also known as grounding. It’s the idea of connecting to the electrical frequencies on the Earth. We connect to the Earth through our physical bodies. This paper claims that earthing can reduce pain, improve sleep and boost overall health.
You’ll get more inspiration
The ancient yogis developed yoga poses through observation of their environment. They were inspired by the objects and circumstances around them. You will also be inspired by the natural world when you practice yoga at the park.
You can, for example, embody the stillness and stability of a mountain by doing Tadasana.
Yoga in the park has many benefits. There are always pros and cons. Here are some cons to practicing yoga in a park.
Cons of Yoga in the Park
Weather can be unpredictable
We can’t control the weather. You can never predict when it’s going to snow or rain when you teach in the park. You can plan your class based on the weather forecast, which says that there is only a 10% probability of rain or snow. It’s a prediction and therefore not accurate.
There Could Be a Crowd
The park may be large and spacious. It’s a public space. You may be distracted from your yoga class by a large crowd that shows up without being invited.
No Facilities
There are also some disadvantages to doing yoga outdoors. Sometimes there may not be any facilities or they could be too far away. What if a student or you have to urinate in the middle?
You can see that doing yoga in the park is more beneficial than not. Here are some tips to help you avoid the cons of teaching yoga in a park.
Teaching Yoga in the Park: Tips and Tricks
Make sure the location is accessible
It is important that the park where your yoga class takes place does not sit too far away from the student’s home or office. It will impact their participation if it is too far. If they need to travel a long distance to attend your classes, it may affect their participation.
The location should also be close to amenities such as toilets or showers. Some students will need to pee in class and others may want to shower afterwards.
Consider an alternative location
There’s a chance it could snow or rain even if the forecast says it won’t. If it does snow or rain, always plan an alternative location. Teach yoga in a park using frame or pole tents. You can also use the open halls.
Take Aesthetics into Consideration
Zen is the goal of yoga studios. There are many trees in parks, and birds can chirp. There can also be an unattractive aesthetic. Choose a place in the park away from them. Pick a spot near trees or flowers.
Select a Place Away From the Noise
Parks are public spaces. You will see other people. There will be dogs barking and children crying. There will be cars honking if it is near the road. You should choose a place in the park away from these sounds.
Bring the Right Props
It is important to bring all your props, as you will not be in a studio. You can ask your students to bring yoga mats. As a yoga teacher, you should get a few extra mats for students who may forget their mats. It’s also best to ask students to bring old, inexpensive props and yoga mats. It’s possible that the ground is not suitable for expensive yoga gear.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is essential. Ask your students to always bring water when teaching yoga in a park. Outdoors, the temperature and humidity may be higher. Students should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Use insect repellents and sunblock
Many insects are in the park. Before they come, remind them to bring or wear insect repellent. Remind them to use sunscreen, as the sun is harsh on skin.
Consider the Surface
Some yoga poses may not be suitable for parks because the surface is not flat or stable enough. You may need to adjust your sequence. Avoid inversions if the surface isn’t flat. Introduce gentler and more basic poses.
Yoga in the park is a great way to get exercise. It has some disadvantages. Preparation is the key to a successful yoga class at the park. Prepare yourself and your students before class.
